More Michigan women are packing pistols

CPLs among Michigan women are up 134 percent in past 4 years

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – Over past four years the number of Michigan women who have renewed or received their concealed pistol license (CPL) has gone up by 134 percent.

If you've gone to a gun store recently, you might notice the new trend.

"I've seen a lot more women getting into this," said Sam Dalily, of Action impact Firearm and Training Center in Southfield.

Sylvia McKeever works nights and says she doesn't feel safe walking to her car.

"You have to make sure your surroundings are safe you don't know what's gonna happen," she said.

Frustrated with feeling vulnerable, women want protection.

"I've been robbed before at a gas station just by stopping at night, so most times I could be out of gas and won't even stop at the gas station. I'd rather wait until the morning," said Sharee Monroe.

It turns out more women are choosing to buy a weapon. While women still make up less than a quarter of the state's new CPL holders, they're getting more licenses than men.

"So some women just want something to put in their pocket, and some go for the bigger gun, same caliber but bigger and thicker," said Dalily.

Many gun stores offer ladies-only classes, which are often full.

McKeever just signed up for one.

"I think most women that's what they're thinking about. It's scary. They're scared," she said. "So a I. I want to make it home to see my kids and grandkids."


About the Author:

Priya joined WDIV-Local 4 in 2013 as a reporter and fill-in anchor. Education: B.A. in Communications/Post Grad in Advanced Journalism